Why Bernese Mountain Dogs Lick Their Paws Raw (And What You Can Do)
If your Bernese Mountain Dog is licking his paws raw, you’re likely worried and frustrated. This behavior is common in the breed, and the root cause is often one of three things: allergies, boredom, or dry skin. Let’s dive into each and what you can do at home, while remembering that a veterinarian should rule out serious issues.
Allergies: The Most Likely Culprit
Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to allergies, especially environmental ones like pollen, mold, or dust mites. Food allergies can also trigger paw licking. When allergens contact the paws, the skin becomes itchy. Your dog licks to relieve the itch, but excessive licking creates moisture and irritation, leading to raw, inflamed skin. This cycle is called a lick granuloma if it becomes chronic.
What to look for:
– Redness or swelling between the toes or on paw pads.
– A brownish stain on the fur from saliva.
– Seasonal patterns (worse in spring or fall).
– Ear infections or itching elsewhere.
What you can do:
– Wipe your dog’s paws with a damp cloth after walks to remove allergens.
– Try a hypoallergenic diet if food allergy is suspected (ask your vet).
– Use a veterinarian-recommended anti-itch spray or balm (avoid human products).
– Consider allergy testing to identify specific triggers.
Boredom or Anxiety: The Mental Health Link
Bernese Mountain Dogs are working dogs, bred to be active and mentally stimulated. When they are bored or anxious, licking becomes a self-soothing habit. This is especially common if your dog is left alone for long hours or lacks exercise. The repetitive licking releases endorphins, making it a hard-to-break cycle.
What to look for:
– Licking happens mostly when you’re away or during quiet times.
– Your dog seems restless, destructive, or withdrawn.
– No obvious skin irritation at first, but licking leads to raw spots over time.
What you can do:
– Increase physical exercise: aim for at least 60 minutes of brisk walking or play daily.
– Provide mental stimulation: puzzle toys, training sessions, or nose work games.
– Use an anti-lick collar (like a soft inflatable cone) to break the habit.
– Create a calm environment with music or pheromone diffusers.
Dry Skin: The Overlooked Factor
Dry, flaky skin can cause itching, and licking provides temporary moisture. Bernese Mountain Dogs have a thick double coat that can hide dry skin until it becomes severe. Dry air (especially in winter), over-bathing, or poor diet can strip natural oils.
What to look for:
– Flaky dandruff on the coat or skin.
– Rough, cracked paw pads.
– Licking that seems focused on one spot rather than all paws.
– A dull coat.
What you can do:
– Add a teaspoon of salmon oil or flaxseed oil to your dog’s food (check with vet for dosage).
– Bathe less frequently (every 6-8 weeks) using a moisturizing, oatmeal-based dog shampoo.
– Use a humidifier in rooms where your dog spends time.
– Apply a pet-safe paw balm to moisturize pads and prevent cracking.
When to Call the Vet
If the licking persists for more than a week despite home care, or if you see open sores, bleeding, swelling, or signs of infection (pus, bad smell, heat), it’s time for a vet visit. A veterinarian can:
– Rule out parasites like mites or fleas.
– Diagnose bacterial or yeast infections (common secondary issues).
– Prescribe medications or allergy shots.
– Recommend an elimination diet for food allergies.
Persistent licking can lead to deep infections and scarring, so early intervention is key. Your vet may also recommend a cone or bitter spray to prevent licking while treating the underlying cause.
Final Thoughts
Paw licking in Bernese Mountain Dogs is rarely just a bad habit. It’s usually a sign of discomfort from allergies, boredom, or dry skin. Start with basic changes like paw wiping and increased exercise, but don’t hesitate to see your vet. With the right approach, your Bernese can get relief and leave his paws alone.
Key Takeaway
Paw licking in Bernese Mountain Dogs is often due to allergies, boredom, or dry skin; address the root cause and consult a vet if raw spots develop.